Metro Manila, Philippines – Former Public Works undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral, who was tagged in the alleged budget insertions and kickbacks from flood control projects, was summoned by the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) on Dec. 15–the last hearing for the year.

In a press briefing on Thursday, Dec. 11, ICI executive director Brian Hosaka said the commission has already issued a subpoena against Cabral, but still awaits her confirmation.

“The commission just wants to verify certain information, more information,” said Hosaka when asked about inviting Cabral to the inquiry.

The ICI earlier asked the Ombudsman to file administrative charges against Cabral for anomalous projects in Bulacan.

Former DPWH undersecretary Roberto Bernardo, Cabral’s colleague, earlier accused her of receiving cuts and control insertions for infrastructure projects in the National Expenditure Program (NEP).

Hosaka said Cabral may be the last resource person for the year as they plan to wrap up hearings by Dec. 15.

It coincides with the last day of ICI commissioner Rogelio Singson who resigned over health reasons.

“Sa ngayon, wala pang decision ang commission on whether or not hearings will continue despite the commission lacking one member,” Hosaka said.

[Translation: As of now, there is no decision yet whether or not hearings will continue despite the commission lacking one member.]

The ICI official said while hearings will last until Dec. 15, the work of the commission, such as case-buildups, will continue until Dec. 24.